How to start your childcare career, qualifications, where to train and who to contact. To speak to an expert in your local authority please visit the contact page.

Registered Childminders

Registered childminders are self-employed professionals who care for children within the childminder’s own home. To care for children under the age of eight, childminders must be registered with Ofsted and follow the Early Years Foundation Stage framework if caring for under 5s.

Qualifications & Funding

To work in a day nursery, pre-school or out-of school club you ideally need to hold a minimum level 2 early years or playwork qualification. There are no minimum qualification levels for childminders (except the registration course), however it's good practice to gain a minimum level 3.